1,000 signatures reached
To: Barnsley Council
Support Barnsley's Nursery Workers and Protect Children's Services
Barnsley Council's plans to outsource Athersley, Grimethorpe, Bolton Upon Dearne, Thurnscoe, Darfield and Worsborough nurseries have left staff and families facing uncertainty. Negotiations have broken down over pension arrangements, despite workers previously being assured that their pension rights would be protected following transfer to a new employer. The transfer is set to take place on 1st January 2027.
As a result, the future of these services remains unclear. Currently, Grimethorpe nursery, also known as North East Family Hub, has closed which has left families without childcare. This could affect all six nurseries at risk in the area. Families across Barnsley risk losing access to vital early years provision, while dedicated nursery workers are being left in limbo.
The workforce affected is overwhelmingly made up of women who have spent years, and in many cases decades, supporting children and families in their communities. These workers are simply asking for the pension protection they were promised and have earned through their public service.
We call on Barnsley Council's leadership to honour its commitments, resolve the pension dispute, protect nursery workers' futures, and ensure that children and families do not lose access to essential nursery places.
Sign this petition to demand fair treatment for nursery workers and to protect Barnsley's nursery provision for future generations.
Why is this important?
Because this campaign is about the council honouring their word, defending the pensions of dedicated nursery workers and looking after the children and parents in Barnsley. Without action, families could lose access to much-needed nursery provision and workers who have spent decades serving their communities could see their retirement security put at risk. By signing, you are sending a clear message that Barnsley's children, families and nursery staff deserve better.
This issue goes beyond pensions. The uncertainty is already affecting nursery provision, with nurseries reportedly having to turn away children because the future arrangements have not been resolved. Families, children and staff are all being impacted.
Protect local nursery places so that children and families can continue to access vital early years education and support services.
This issue goes beyond pensions. The uncertainty is already affecting nursery provision, with nurseries reportedly having to turn away children because the future arrangements have not been resolved. Families, children and staff are all being impacted.
Protect local nursery places so that children and families can continue to access vital early years education and support services.
Stand up for fairness by ensuring long-serving nursery workers receive the pension protections they were assured they would keep.
Hold decision-makers accountable and encourage Barnsley Council to resolve the dispute and provide clarity for staff and parents.
Support a predominantly female workforce that has spent years serving local communities and deserves respect and security in return for that service.